Wow, what a great question. I have owned 2 .44s and 2 .41s. I live in Alaska so I lean to the heavier loaded .44, but when in bear country while fishing I carry a 12 GA with an 18.5 in barrel and slugs. But the two handguns are remarkable. For recoil the .41 is a tad less out the end of my Blackhawk, but even a little less with my Taurus model 44 in .44 Mag with its ported barrel compared to the Redhawk with no porting. Both are stout kickers, but with the .44 I can also shoot .44 Specials for home defense, and I keep a few bird shot rounds in my backpack just in case I am stranded and need to shoot a grouse or hare and want some meat left to roast, and unless there is a new load I'm not aware of, that isn't possible with the .41. Two great loads, but I think it's the Ford vs Chevy, or picking your favorite team to root for thing - pick the one you choose - both are winners. Great question for this forum.